In early 2020, Chinese virologist Zhang Yongzhen shared critical data by disclosing the genome of the virus causing Covid-19, aiding global efforts to combat the pandemic. However, Zhang has since faced obstacles in his career in China, with his lab at the Shanghai Public Health Clinical Center abruptly closed for renovations.
Zhang protested by sleeping outside his lab, demanding the resumption of scientific work related to tracing Covid-19 origins. His team faced challenges due to the closure, impacting more than a dozen students' research.
Despite the center's claims of providing alternative spaces, Zhang criticized the closure as unnecessary. His students highlighted issues with the relocation plan and insufficient time allocated for moving scientific work.
These challenges follow restrictions placed on Zhang's lab after he shared the Covid-19 genome sequence in 2020. The Chinese government's oversight on Covid-related scientific information led to Zhang's lab limitations and eventual departure from China's CDC.
Since then, Zhang has continued his research at the Shanghai center, publishing on virus presence in animals and nature in China. His recent work on coronavirus variants in Shanghai showcases ongoing efforts related to Covid-19.
Despite facing setbacks, Zhang remains resilient, expressing no regrets for his choices. However, the toll on his career has been significant, impacting his productivity and overall well-being.
His long-time collaborator, Edward Holmes, highlighted the challenges Zhang has faced, including failed legal pursuits against the Shanghai center. The situation reflects the complexities of scientific research in China amidst the Covid-19 pandemic.
